We sat down with the amazing Ava Johanna & Kate Van Horn of the Conscious Creators Retreat, and asked them about their journeys toward pursuing their passions and manifesting their dream lives. Read on to hear how they did it!
Q: What made you decide to pursue your passion? What was the turning point?
Ava:
I left the corporate world pursuing my curiosities and the things I was passionate about. There was never a single momentous point, but there were small incremental steps along the way that paved the path to where I am now. I am constantly re-evaluating whether something feels good or feels forced, and I truly believe that when we’re flowing with what we’re excited about, the steps to success lay down in front of us.
Kate:
I have always struggled with establishing a "traditional" career. My family and I laugh about it now, but I did very poorly in school and throughout college. I was set on starting a business for myself, I told everyone in my life that was my goal. I just couldn't seem to find "the thing" I wanted to create. I think this is very common for entrepreneurs who are hungry to create and share, yet need to see what resonates most and comes with the most ease. So when I started a yoga and meditation practice, and began exploring mindfulness practices to overcome my anxiety and depression, it became instantly clear that sharing this experience and my passion for wellness was the answer I had been looking for. The journey wasn't easy by any means. I took the leap to quit my full time job, was a nanny and server simultaneously to make ends meet, and eventually established an income for myself, and turned my passion into my career. I'm forever grateful I listened to my intuition about the style of career that would be best for me, as well as the passions and offerings I wanted to provide to an audience.
Q: How has manifestation played a role in creating your dream reality?
Ava:
Manifestation has been instrumental in my life and career, as it has served as my method of inquiry, evaluation, and action. When I ask myself what it is that I want, I am manifesting. When I look at my habits, my routines, and my thoughts, I am manifesting. When I ask myself what I need to do to accomplish goals, I'm manifesting. It’s so interconnected, and whether you know it or not, you're doing it in your every day life. The beauty is recognizing that you’re doing it and being empowered by your role as the creator.
Kate:
Manifestation has taught me that anything is possible, so long as my heart is leading, (rather than my ego) and I'm grounded in my worth. Manifestation has played a role in expanding my business vision, and allowed me to reach pivotal moments of success in my career earlier than I imagined. I feel empowered knowing I can co-create my reality, and I enjoy teaching others to believe in their innate ability to manifest, as well. That's why Ava and I can't wait to share our tips, processes, and manifestation rituals with our group on retreat!
Q: If you could offer any piece of advice to those hoping to pursue their passion and bring more abundance into their life, what would it be?
Ava:
Get behind whatever it is you’re doing. Be excited, because your excitement creates a ripple effect, and magnetizes the people, opportunities, and experiences that are necessary to attract abundance. Timing is everything, so trust that when you put it out there, as long as you’re giving it your attention and energy, it’s on its way to you.
Kate:
To just GET STARTED. Do your best to get started rather than overthinking, because as an entrepreneur you're always evolving, growing, and changing course. Leaning into that discomfort and uncertainty is important. I think the number one mistake people make is wanting the launch, the initial product, or first client to be PERFECT. They're so passionate about what they're creating, they actually end up getting in their own way! Through supportive friends who are also taking risks and serving as expanders for you, it becomes easier. We hope to bring that support and guidance to give our retreat guests the courage they need!
Want to learn from these inspiring creators, and create your own dream reality? Join us for the Conscious Creators retreat in beautiful Nosara, Costa Rica, where the jungle meets the ocean, this November 16th to 21st! We’ll be diving deep into yoga, meditation, manifestation, connection, and tools to get you on your way to living the life of your dreams!